Team size: 20

How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?

At Duferco Group, legal strategy is a pillar of business continuity. During periods of inestability, such as geopolitical tensions or market volatility, we adopt a proactive, risk-based approach. The legal team works closely with executive leadership to anticipate regulatory shifts, secure contractual flexibility, and ensure compliance across jurisdictions. Our legal function is embedded in strategic decision-making, enabling us to respond swiftly while safeguarding the Group’s interests.

How do you prioritise diversity and inclusion within your legal department, and what initiatives have you implemented to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment?

Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our legal and overall business culture. We prioritise inclusive hiring practices and cross-functional collaboration to ensure diverse perspectives are represented. At Duferco, we have implemented flexible work policies as well as multiple initiatives aimed at ensuring and reinforcing diversity, inclusion, and gender equality throughout the entire Group.

We also encourage open dialogue and feedback to create a safe space for team members to share experiences and contribute to a more inclusive workplace.

With new ESG disclosure rules and EU supply chain due diligence standards affecting Switzerland, how is your legal team integrating sustainability into governance and daily operations, and what role does the general counsel play in shaping corporate strategy?

Duferco Group has made sustainability a strategic priority, integrating ESG principles into its operations, supply chain and governance. From energy transition investments to circular production processes and employee welfare initiatives, sustainability is embedded in our decision-making processes. As general counsel, I ensure that these commitments are reflected in our legal frameworks, through ESG clauses in contracts, regulatory compliance and transparent reports. I also lead the group’s sustainability team.

This dual role allows me to directly shape our ESG strategy, advise the board on related risks and opportunities, and ensure that our sustainability goals translate into measurable, enforceable actions.

What do you see as the major legal challenges for businesses in Switzerland over the next five years, and how are you preparing to address them?

The major legal challenges for Switzerland include increasing regulatory complexity, particularly around ESG, data privacy and cross-border compliance. Politically, there’s growing emphasis on corporate accountability and transparency. Economically, the energy transition and digital transformation are reshaping business models.

Companies are expected to improve sustainability reporting and governance, which requires legal departments to be more strategic and cross-functional. Switzerland is also prioritising energy transition and digital infrastructure. These initiatives create opportunities but also demand careful legal oversight, especially in regulatory and compliance matters. Economically, there’s renewed momentum in sectors like logistics and advanced manufacturing. This is driving cross-border activity and innovation, with legal teams playing a key role in enabling growth while managing risk. Overall, the legal function is evolving, from reactive support to strategic leadership, ensuring business decisions align with both legal obligations and broader societal expectations.

For legal departments, this means staying agile, anticipating regulatory shifts, and aligning legal strategy with broader societal expectations.